Record breaking Henley Masters Regatta returns for 31st Year

No such thing as Henley blues as the Masters Regatta roars back into life

The Henley Masters Regatta will return from 11th to 13th July 2025, celebrating its 31st edition with a record number of entries and an expanded three-day racing schedule.

First established in 1994 by Harry Harvey (Derby Rowing Club) and Stuart Wilson (Upper Thames Rowing Club), the regatta has grown into one of the premier events for masters rowers worldwide. Apart from a pause in 2020 due to the pandemic, it has run every year since its inception.

This year sees an additional day of racing added on Sunday, allowing organisers to accommodate an oversubscribed entry list and offer new mixed Masters eights and quads events. In total, the 2025 regatta will host a record breaking 1,413 competitors in 438 crews from 172 rowing clubs, including 37 international clubs from 14 countries, such as the USA, Australia, Germany, Italy, France, New Zealand, and Hungary. Races will be held in 81 events across all Masters age categories, from Masters B  to Masters J.

Crews will race side by side over a 1,000-metre course along the iconic Henley reach, from just above Temple Island to Upper Thames Rowing Club. Racing begins at 9am on Friday and Sunday, and at 8:30am on Saturday, with races running every four minutes and culminating in finals across the weekend.

“We are thrilled to welcome such a large and diverse field of competitors this year,” said Jon Thornber, Henley Masters Regatta Chairman. “The regatta continues to offer not only high-level racing but also a warm and friendly atmosphere that celebrates the full breadth of the masters rowing community from late starters to former Olympians.”

The event remains entirely volunteer run, with more than 100 volunteers and committee members working behind the scenes to deliver a smooth and enjoyable experience for competitors and spectators alike. Livestream coverage will be available via a pay-to-view service, and the full programme is also accessible online. Spectators are encouraged to attend in person and enjoy the racing from the towpath, and to visit sponsor and exhibitor stands supporting the event.

The Henley Masters Regatta continues to celebrate the spirit of competitive rowing at all ages, in the heart of one of the sport’s most iconic settings.

More information is available here.